Double Arch (Utah)About Double Arch (Utah)
Double Arch is a twin natural-arch formation in Arches National Park, eastern Utah, formed within the same rock mass and noted for its unusually large openings. It is one of the park’s most visited and photographed features.
The feature consists of two large arches that share a common alcove and are reached by a short paved trail from the nearby parking area, making it accessible for most visitors. The scale of the openings and the alcove setting create dramatic views and opportunities for up-close inspection of the sandstone.
The arches formed by long-term erosion of Entrada Sandstone; the park’s geology reflects jointing and weathering processes acting over millions of years to produce the variety of arches and fins seen today. Double Arch sits among other Windows Section formations.
Located inside Arches National Park near the park road and visitor areas, the formation is reached from the park’s main access routes near Moab in eastern Utah.
- Access: A short paved trail from the Windows/Double Arch parking area provides close access to the formation, making it a popular, easily reached viewpoint within the park.
- Viewing tips: Best lighting for photography is typically at sunrise and late afternoon when sun angles accentuate the arches and surrounding red sandstone.
Nearby Attractions to Double Arch (Utah)
Best Time to Visit Double Arch (Utah)
Spring and fall offer the best combination of weather and accessibility; summer is hot but mornings and evenings remain usable.
Weather & Climate near Double Arch (Utah)
Double Arch (Utah)'s climate is classified as Cold Desert - Cold Desert climate with hot summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -8°C to 35°C. Semi-arid with limited rainfall.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | - | -8° - 4° | -4° | 21 mm | - | - | 1.6 m/s | - | - |
| February | - | -5° - 9° | 0° | 15 mm | - | - | 2.0 m/s | - | - |
| March | - | -1° - 14° | 4° | 25 mm | - | - | 2.8 m/s | - | - |
| April | - | 3° - 19° | 11° | 22 mm | - | - | 3.2 m/s | - | - |
| May | - | 8° - 25° | 16° | 22 mm | - | - | 3.2 m/s | - | - |
| June | - | 13° - 31° | 22° | 11 mm | - | - | 3.0 m/s | - | - |
| July | - | 17° - 35° | 26° | 24 mm | - | - | 2.6 m/s | - | - |
| August | - | 16° - 34° | 25° | 25 mm | - | - | 2.5 m/s | - | - |
| September | - | 11° - 28° | 20° | 24 mm | - | - | 2.4 m/s | - | - |
| October | - | 4° - 21° | 12° | 32 mm | - | - | 2.1 m/s | - | - |
| November | - | -3° - 12° | 3° | 21 mm | - | - | 1.9 m/s | - | - |
| December | - | -7° - 6° | -3° | 19 mm | - | - | 1.6 m/s | - | - |
How to Get to Double Arch (Utah)
Double Arch is accessed from the Windows parking area in Arches National Park, about 5 miles (8 km) north of Moab on US-191 and Park Avenue/Arches entrance road. The hike from the lot is short and well signed.
Tips for Visiting Double Arch (Utah)
- Visit Double Arch late afternoon for warm light inside the arch and fewer mid-day crowds.
- Park at the Windows/Double Arch parking area early-spaces fill quickly in high season.
- The twin openings are best photographed from the base of the arch; watch for balanced rockfall and stay behind safety rails where provided.